A recently released article indicated that Louisiana has the third-highest rate of bicycle related deaths in the country, according to a recent study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Specifically, the study found that the death rate for adults (ages 35-74) is second only to Florida and Delaware—two of the deadliest states for bicycle riders.
The Right of Way
It is key to understand the rules of the road when cars and bikes are sharing it. Anyone operating a vehicle must exercise due care while passing and leave a safe distance of no less than three feet between the car and bike. Cars may not pass bikes at all in a designated no-passing zones.
In addition, traffic laws apply to those riding bikes. They must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one moving in the same direction except when:
- Overtaking and passing another bike or vehicle going in the same direction;
- Preparing for a left turn at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway;
- Reasonably necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, pedestrians, animals, or any other conditions that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge; or
- Approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
Options If You’ve Been Hit on Your Bike
While you always have the option of going to court to address your injuries, you can also try to recover compensation for any injuries and losses you have suffered by filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company.
However, it is recommended that, once you have been treated medically and gathered any relevant details associated with your bicycle accident, you first discuss what happened with an experienced attorney so that you can prepare to approach the driver’s insurance company about the accident. Even if you’ve decided to try and settle with an insurance company instead of litigate, you will need to formulate a demand letter with your attorney to ensure that you are properly represented and have a chance at receiving proper compensation for your bicycle injuries.
Harrell & Nowak
If you have been injured on your bike, it may be due to someone else’s negligence. Personal injuries happen all the time simply because some else was careless in what they did or how they acted. And many of these personal injuries could have been prevented by the wrongdoer simply taking reasonable and common sense steps.
The personal injury attorneys at Harrell & Nowak have helped many victims in New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie, and throughout Louisiana obtain financial compensation for their injuries. Our accident lawyers will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair recovery if your injury has been caused by some else not being responsible. Contact our office today for a free consultation.